Who was Jay Wilkins?
Jay Wilkins was the president of Harvest Partners, a private equity firm that invests in middle-market companies. He joined Harvest in 2010 and led the firm’s growth strategy, portfolio management, and operations. He was also a board member of several Harvest portfolio companies, including Athletico, Dental Care Alliance, Lazer Spot, and VetCor.
Jay Wilkins was born in Philadelphia in 1977 and graduated from Vanderbilt University with a BS in economics. He began his career in finance with Donaldson, Lufkin, and Jenrette, and later worked as a principal at DLJ Merchant Banking Partners and North Castle Partners. He was a generous philanthropist and a trustee of The Haverford School and The Allen Stevenson School. He was married to McCartney Sullivan Kay Wilkins and had a son, John Campbell Wilkins III (Jack).
How did Jay Wilkins die?
Jay Wilkins died on February 5th, 2023, at the age of 46, due to a cardiac arrest. He passed away in New York, where he lived with his family. His death was announced by Harvest Partners in a statement that expressed their deep sorrow and gratitude for his leadership and friendship.
According to Harvest Partners, Jay Wilkins was a visionary leader who had a profound impact on the firm and the industry. He was admired for his intelligence, integrity, and passion. He was also a mentor and a role model for many colleagues and entrepreneurs. He was known for his ability to solve complex problems, create value, and inspire others to achieve excellence.
How did the world react to Jay Wilkins’ death?
Jay Wilkins’ death was met with shock and sadness by many people who knew him personally or professionally. His obituary was published in The New York Times and other media outlets. Many tributes and condolences were posted on social media and online platforms by his friends, family, co-workers, and associates.
Some of the messages that honored Jay Wilkins’ legacy are:
- “Jay was a remarkable person and a dear friend. He had a rare combination of brilliance, kindness, and humor. He was always there for me and for so many others. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.” – Steve Eisenstein, co-founder and senior managing director of Harvest Partners.
- “Jay was a phenomenal leader and a wonderful human being. He had a positive influence on everyone he touched. He was a true partner and a trusted advisor. He was also a loving husband and father. He was one of a kind and I will always cherish our friendship.” – Tom Arenz, partner and head of investor relations at Harvest Partners.
- “Jay was an incredible person and a brilliant investor. He had a vision and a drive that were unmatched. He was a master of his craft and a leader of his team. He was also a generous and compassionate soul. He was a legend and a hero. I am honored to have worked with him and learned from him.” – Michael DeFlorio, co-founder and senior managing director of Harvest Partners.
What is the legacy of Jay Wilkins?
Jay Wilkins leaves behind a legacy of excellence, innovation, and impact. He was a pioneer and a leader in the private equity industry, who helped shape the future of many businesses and sectors. He was also a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who enriched the lives of many people with his love, wisdom, and humor.
Jay Wilkins will be remembered as a man who lived his life to the fullest, who pursued his dreams with courage and conviction, and who made the world a better place with his actions and words. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but his spirit and his legacy will live on.